Hi, I'm Alan

So much! I found that my mental, social, and physical health all dramatically improved as soon as I made the decision to leave. I still have challenges, life doesn't just stop, but none of them are as catastrophic appearing or progress halting as when challenges would confront me while I was a mormon. My family is not supportive of this decision however, and we are still trying to establish and maintain healthy boundaries with this new dynamic.

I have a strong friend group that is very supportive of me and lets me use them as a sounding board when I just need to vent or work through my evolving sense of morality. I also have turned to science, philosophy, and nature to find truth, meaning, morality, and peace. The best resource I used though was "The Cosmos" by Neil deGrasse Tyson. It helped remind me of my place in history, nature, and society.

I am still working to establish clear boundaries with my believing family. They are quite aggressive at times with trying to proselytize me back into mormonism but I am always firm with letting them know that they are crossing my boundaries and need to respect them. I always make an effort to be supportive of their lifestyle and beliefs, I never speak ill of the church in their presence, and I also discuss aspects of their church life with them when they wish to discuss it. If I could recommend anything, it would be to set boundaries, defend them, and always treat others with respect and kindness.